Cathie Bleck‘s work is a series of luscious explorations into color, light, movement and form. Her process is a building up of multiple layers of organic clay and handmade pigments; she then carves, sands and etches the surface before adding inks, paint, lacquer and/or varnish. These expressive gestures — both subtractive and additive — create depth and lightness. Bleck created this show after an 18-month sabbatical were she traveled the world. Refreshed by glittering waters and enveloped by lush landscapes; she surrendered herself to the universe, utterly and completely immersed. The resulting works are at once bold and intimate, confident yet quiet, soulful and smart.